I stayed at the Golden Bear a few years ago and found it spartan, clean and adequate. The former Hotel New York, which I understand from above has reopened as the New Amsterdam was the nicest gay hotel I have ever stayed in, with prices to match. I'll be interested to hear how it is now.

The Renaissance is also nice, can often be had on Priceline for a song and is very close to the Waarmostraat area bars.

Would be interested in hearing about the Stablemaster atmosphere from joeinnewengland (or, for that matter, anyone else who has stayed there) - a PM is fine if you prefer not to post it here!